Perry's Cave

The cave lies 52 feet below the surface of South Bass Island in Lake Erie. The discovery of the cave, in 1813, is credited to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, hero of the battle of Lake Erie. The cave is 208 feet long by 165 feet wide. View stalactites, stalagmites and cave pearls on the cave's walls, ceiling and floor created by heavily encrusted calcium carbonate deposits from centuries of water dripping from the ceiling. The temperature remains in the vicinity of 50° year-round.

A rare Underground Lake is also located in the cave. The water level rises and falls with that of Lake Erie, indicating subterranean connections. Recent findings reveal that after Perry's men became ill, they used the fresh cold water from Perry's Cave Lake to drink. The luxurious Victory Hotel, once the largest hotel in the world, also used the water from the cave's lake. The hotel burned in 1919 and its ruins are visible at the South Bass Island State Park.

Descending from the shop area, tours are at frequent intervals. The average tour takes 15-20 minutes, but you may need to allow longer because our courteous and knowledgeable guides talk to you, not at you. Light wrap and comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles are suggested.

The Shop at the Top, Gift Shop and General Information Station

• Unique educational gifts including gemstones, geodes, and science kits.
• Fun toys and games.
• Souvenirs and Unique Jewelry